Because “social capital is denominated in currencies that the world could never have imagined before”, choosing the honourees of the inaugural Tatler Asia’s Most Influential lists has meant a re-examination of the very nature of influence
To be influential today means many new things. There are platforms, channels, and audiences to consider. Social capital is denominated in currencies that the world could never have imagined before.
To be influential today no longer means just to be powerful or successful in one’s particular field of work or art. The concept of influence has reformulated itself to include the power of one’s image and one’s life as seen and performed in spaces both physical and digital.
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To this, we wish to add the power of social relevance and personal resonance. We wish to acknowledge the tides of the times and recognize the overwhelming need—especially for those of us are led by those with influence—to hear an uplifting voice and feel an empowering spirit.
It is important to distinguish those possessed of this voice and this spirit from those who are merely financially or politically powerful, or simply overwhelmingly popular. As times change and our values are sharpened, the very definition of influence must be made clearer and more meaningful. We subscribe to their views because ours mirror theirs. We cheer them on because their achievements reflect our dreams. We follow the work they do or the lives they lead because their vision holds our welfare in consideration.